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LOS ANGELES, CA - An alligator tragically snatched a 2-year-old boy in June as he waded in the Seven Seas Lagoon at Walt Disney World’s Grand Floridian resort in Orlando. In light of the recent attack, here are a few tips and facts to keep you and your family safe from alligators. How can you avoid an attack?

Do not swim outside marked swimming areas in waters where alligators might be.

Be aware of the possibility of alligators in fresh or brackish water. Pay attention to your surroundings.

Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn, so avoid swimming at night. Feeding an alligator is against the law and makes them less fearful of humans. Also, do not throw away fish scraps into water.

If attacked by an alligator, fight back and make as much noise as possible. Hitting and kicking the alligator or poking it in its eyes may cause it to release its grip. When alligators seize prey they can not easily be overpowered but they will often let go and retreat.

If an alligator charges on land, run away in a zigzag instead of a straight line to confuse them. Don’t just try to outrun them.

If you encounter an alligator over 4 feet in length that could pose a possible threat to humans report it to 911 or the FWC’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR.